Xenopsylla cheopis

Definition

Xenopsylla cheopis is a species of flea known for being the primary vector of Yersinia pestis, the bacterium responsible for plague. It primarily infests rats and can transmit infections to humans through bites.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Xenopsylla cheopis is the main vector for Yersinia pestis, which causes bubonic, septicemic, and pneumonic plague.
2. It typically infests rodents like rats but can bite humans when rodent hosts are not available.
3. The flea transmits the bacteria when it regurgitates infected blood into the bite wound.
4. Control of Xenopsylla cheopis populations is crucial in preventing plague outbreaks.
5. Historical pandemics like the Black Death were partially attributed to Xenopsylla cheopis acting as a vector.

Review Questions

Related terms

Yersinia pestis:

A Gram-negative bacterium that causes plague.

Bubonic Plague: A form of plague characterized by swollen lymph nodes called buboes.

Vector:

An organism that transmits pathogens from one host to another.